By Massaman curry, a rich and fragrant dish, is one of Thailand’s most beloved culinary exports. Known for its complex flavours and creamy texture, it combines traditional Thai ingredients with Indian and Malaysian influences. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a hearty, aromatic meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here are ten delicious slow cooker Massaman curry recipes you must try.
Classic Slow Cooker Massaman Curry
The classic slow cooker Massaman curry stays true to traditional flavours. You’ll need 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into cubes, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of beef broth, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 8 hours. The result is a rich, flavorful curry that pairs perfectly with jasmine rice.
Chicken Massaman Curry
For a lighter option, try chicken Massaman curry. Use 2 pounds of chicken thighs, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 sweet potatoes, 1 onion, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6 hours. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, absorbing the fragrant spices and coconut milk.
Vegetarian Massaman Curry
This vegetarian Massaman curry is hearty and satisfying. You’ll need 1 can of chickpeas, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6 hours. The vegetables soak up the flavorful broth, creating a delicious meat-free meal.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Tofu
Tofu adds a delightful texture to Massaman curry. Use 2 blocks of firm tofu, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 2 sweet potatoes, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6 hours. The tofu absorbs the curry flavours, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Lamb
Lamb adds a rich, savoury flavour to Massaman curry. Use 2 pounds of lamb shoulder, cut into cubes, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of beef broth, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 8 hours. The lamb becomes tender and juicy, perfect for a comforting meal.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Duck
Duck Massaman curry is an indulgent treat. Use 2 duck breasts, sliced, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 sweet potatoes, 1 onion, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6 hours. The rich duck meat pairs beautifully with the aromatic curry sauce.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Seafood
Seafood Massaman curry is a delightful variation. Use 1 pound of shrimp, 1 pound of scallops, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of fish broth, 1 sweet potato, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients except the seafood in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6 hours. Add the seafood during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking. This curry is light, flavorful, and perfect for seafood lovers.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Pork
Pork Massaman curry is a hearty and delicious option. Use 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into cubes, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 8 hours. The pork becomes tender and flavorful, soaking up the rich curry sauce.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Mushrooms
For a rich, umami flavour, try mushroom Massaman curry. Use 2 cups of mixed mushrooms, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6 hours. The mushrooms absorb the curry sauce, adding depth and richness to the dish.
Slow Cooker Massaman Curry with Beef and Peanut Butter
Adding peanut butter to Massaman curry gives it a rich, creamy texture. Use 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into cubes, 2 cups of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of Massaman curry paste, 1 cup of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 star anise, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 8 hours. The peanut butter adds a nutty flavour that complements the rich curry sauce perfectly.
Conclusion
Slow cooker Massaman curry is a versatile and delicious dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, lamb, tofu, or vegetables, there’s a Massaman curry recipe here for you. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with these recipes and enjoy the comforting, aromatic flavours of Massaman curry in your slow cooker.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought Massaman curry paste?
Yes, store-bought Massaman curry paste works well and saves time. Ensure you adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
Q: Can I make Massaman curry in the slow cooker ahead of time?
Absolutely. Slow cooker Massaman curry can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: Can I freeze slow cooker Massaman curry?
Yes, Massaman curry freezes well. Cool the curry completely, transfer to airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with Massaman curry?
Massaman curry pairs well with jasmine rice, sticky rice, or flatbreads. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added flavour.
Q: How can I thicken the curry sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, and stir it into the curry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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